COVENTRY'S leading role in peace-making throughout much of the 20th and 21st century was highlighted by former city provost Peter Berry, when he addressed a multi-faith audience.

The Very Rev Berry was invited to talk at St Mary's Guildhall, in the city centre, by members of the Dr Amal Dharry Memorial Trust who wanted to mark Coventry Peace Month.

The late Dr Dharry, whose death sparked a major fundraising appeal for homeless charity Coventry Cyrenians, was stabbed to death in Earlsdon 26 years ago.

Money donated to the trust has since paid for training staff at both the Cyrenians and day services at nearby Norton House, which provides meals for homeless and vulnerably housed people.

The retired provost, who is now based in Birmingham, told the audience of his continuing high regard for Coventry, where he spent 24 years, and of the importance of healing old wounds.

Afterwards, Jim MacCormack, who works at Norton House and is a member of the Dr Dharry Memorial Trust, said: "I think this is the best speech I've ever heard and it was particularly good that not only Christians, but Sikhs, Hindus and Muslims, were among those in the audience.

"Rev Berry talked about Coventry's extra commitment to post-war healing of wounds and the concept of having twin cities and cultivating special relationships."